Gord Stifanyk

Business Development, Western Canada, Coffey Geotechnics

Gord Stifanyk was recently recruited by Coffey Geotechnics to lead business development in Western Canada. This is a paradigm shift from the first 15 years of his career where he focused his efforts on delivery as a recognized program manager who spent time working across North America. Gord’s glad to be back in Calgary as it means time with family and friends.

When he’s not working, you’ll find Gord on a night out with his wife or throwing the football around with his children or lifting awkward objects overhead.

Gord has a bachelor’s of education from the University of Alberta and has held a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification for over a decade.

We asked Gord:

The OGM: What does sustainability mean to you?

Gord: When I hear the word “sustainability,” I think of it in relation to environmental sciences, essentially long-term ecological balance.

The OGM: Have you had a mentor?

Gord: I had the good fortune to have had several mentors throughout my career. Greg Surbey of ICOM Productions gave me my start here in Calgary. Through Greg, I had my first experience working in the energy sector at PanCanadian Petroleum, which is now EnCana. During my time at Bell Canada, I was heavily influenced by Allan McDonald. Allan is now the COO of Canadian Tire. Jeff Hilton, vice president of projects for SNC-Lavalin, has been a mentor and friend for many years. Jeff was instrumental in my recent assignment with SNC-Lavalin State-side.

The OGM: What does success mean to you?

Gord: Success to me is living with authenticity, passion, and a love of my family.

The OGM: If you were to describe your career in three words what would they be?

Gord: Dynamic. Focused. Rewarding.

The OGM: What advice would you give to someone looking for a career in the energy industry?

Gord: If you’re in Calgary, you’re in the right spot. I truly believe there is no better place in the world to build relationships and secure business in the energy sector.

The OGM: Describe a milestone in your career?

Gord: I view my experience working in New England for SNC-Lavalin as a milestone event in my career. A fantastic experience both professionally and personally.

The OGM: Describe a challenge you faced in your career?

Gord: It is difficult to describe a single challenge. As with most managers, facing and overcoming challenges are what keep us gainfully employed. To overcome any challenge, I’ve always tried to maintain a “never quit” attitude. With this, I’ve been able to overcome almost anything.

The OGM: What impact does technology have on your career?

Gord: Technology continues to have a huge impact on my career. Like most young professionals, I am constantly looking for ways to work smarter. Keeping up on new trends in technology is essential in staying ahead of the curve.

The OGM: What do the next five years look like in your career?

Gord: I’m really excited about the recent resurgence in the energy sector here in Western Canada. In particular, the role Coffey Geotechnics will play in these developments. I look forward to working with the great team here at Coffey and the mark we’re going to make in the Alberta energy sector.

The OGM: Were you always interested in a career in Energy?

Gord: Certainly. Growing up in Alberta, there was always the notion that I would be working in oil and gas, somehow or some way.

The OGM: 11. What interests you to sustain a career in the energy industry?

Gord: Global opportunity. I’ve had the very good fortune to work abroad. I look forward to future assignments where I can travel, learn, and grow.

The OGM: Do you have a role model you look up to?

Gord: My parents have influenced me greatly. Hard-working and yet incredibly social people who dedicated their lives to raising their sons. I try to emulate them every day.

The OGM: What does energy mean to you?

Gord: The ability to work.

The OGM: What is your favorite APP on your phone?

Gord: Spotify. Great source for music.

The OGM: What impact will the Millennial Generation have on the energy industry?

Gord: The Millennial Generation will continue to challenge status quo. We communicate, we collaborate, and we aren’t afraid to step up to established ideals if we feel there are alternatives.

The OGM: What’s your take on Social Media and our ever changing digital world?

Gord: Social media is trending towards complete integration in our lives. This scares me a little. I believe it is important to not lose sight of human interaction. We need to disconnect once in a while.

The OGM: What Social Medium do you use on a daily basis?

Gord: Texting. For work and communicating with friends and family. Quick, succinct messages. I’m a stickler for correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar. Must be my English major…

The OGM: Do you use Social Media for work?

Gord: Primarily LinkedIn, it is a lifeline for business development activity.

The OGM: What do you think of Social Recruiting?

Gord: Social recruiting continues to play a huge part in staffing my teams. Seeking out the best and brightest worldwide is now just a click away.

The OGM: Why do you love what you do?

Gord: It’s about the people. The connections and therefore relationships you develop in business that carry you through proposals, bids, deals won, and ultimately delivery to the end client.